KURETAKE | CALLIGRAPHY SUPPLIES & BRUSH PENS

Brand

In Pursuit of the Essence of a Writing Instrument Manufacturer

KURETAKE

• 1902
• NARA Sumi (Inksticks)
• Mayumi Nishimura

History

Applying the traditions of Nara ink to the modern era

Kuretake was founded in 1902 as a business specializing in the traditional Nara-style production of sumi ink.

Since then, we have grown into a comprehensive manufacturer of calligraphy supplies, producing not only solid sumi ink but also tube-type "kneaded ink" and liquid "ink drops."

We have also begun developing writing instruments suited to the times.

This led to the "Kuretake Dream Pen," a fine-tip pen featuring water-based ink that overcomes issues such as bleed-through and smudging.

We also launched the "Kuretake Brush Pen," which combines the unique writing feel of traditional ink with the convenience of a sign pen.

While preserving Japan's unique culture of ink and brushes, we continue to evolve into a globally recognized writing instrument manufacturer.

In recent years, we have expanded our lineup to include colorful sign pens sought after in the fields of art, such as greeting cards and crafts.

We are also developing products for the cosmetics and industrial sectors that apply our traditional techniques.

Furthermore, as we expand our sales channels worldwide, we have paid meticulous attention to the subtle nuances of pigment expression.

We will continue to contribute to enriched lives and the creation of new culture through products related to writing and drawing tools.

Characteristic

Carrying on a tradition of proven quality and craftsmanship

We conduct our business with the principle that "quality extends from the moment a customer picks up a product until it is completely used up."

Our products, created based on the traditional ink-making techniques cultivated in Nara, are produced with meticulous care throughout every stage of the process—from planning and manufacturing to shipping.

We remain committed to prioritizing quality and passing down the tradition of ink-making to future generations.

It was with this philosophy in mind that we released the "Fountain brush pen : Yume Ginga (Wajima Makie & Wajima-nuri)" on July 11, 2025.

Due to the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, the traditional craft of "Wajima-nuri" is facing a crisis of survival as artisans and workshops were devastated by the disaster.

As fellow practitioners of a traditional industry, we created this item out of a desire to lend our support.

We used pear wood—the same wood we use for molds in our traditional ink-making process—as the base material, then applied the techniques of "Wajima Makie" and "Wajima-nuri."

Each piece is carefully crafted by hand, allowing you to enjoy subtle variations in expression even within the same design.

This one-of-a-kind writing instrument brings together the tradition of Wajima-nuri and Kuretake's spirit of ink making.

Through our ink-making expertise and the development of writing tools, we deliver the unique value of "Kuretake-made" products.

For Customers

The joy of creating through writing

Since our founding, we have sought to explore the joy and possibilities of "writing" and "drawing" through our calligraphy supplies and art and craft products.

Furthermore, the products we have developed by applying "fine particle dispersion technology"—born from traditional ink-making techniques—have contributed to improved quality and richer artistic expression.

Moving forward, we will continue to cherish traditional techniques while delivering the value of handcrafted items and the joy of creation.

We hope that the items created by Kuretake will add a touch of vibrancy to your daily life.

Award

2014 49th International Premium Incentive Show "Premium Incentive Tool Contest Grand Prize"